Domestic Allegations
Our Approach to Domestic Allegation Cases
Domestic allegations cover a wide spectrum of offences — from common assault and harassment to controlling behaviour and non-fatal strangulation. What they share is complexity: they are often heard in contested circumstances, with limited independent evidence, and outcomes that carry serious personal and professional consequences.
At Lostock Legal, we approach every domestic case with rigour and discretion. We work with you from the moment of arrest or investigation — not just at the courtroom door. Our experience means we know how police and prosecutors approach these cases, and how to build the strongest possible defence on your behalf.
Not everyone investigated is charged. Not everyone charged is convicted. Early advice makes the difference.
Our Approach to Domestic Allegation Cases
Domestic allegations cover a wide spectrum of offences — from common assault and harassment to controlling behaviour and non-fatal strangulation. What they share is complexity: they are often heard in contested circumstances, with limited independent evidence, and outcomes that carry serious personal and professional consequences.
At Lostock Legal, we approach every domestic case with rigour and discretion. We work with you from the moment of arrest or investigation — not just at the courtroom door. Our experience means we know how police and prosecutors approach these cases, and how to build the strongest possible defence on your behalf.
Not everyone investigated is charged. Not everyone charged is convicted. Early advice makes the difference.
Areas We Advise On
Harassment & Stalking
Offences under the Protection from Harassment Act 1997 and the Stalking Protection Act 2019. These charges can arise from repeated contact, following, or monitoring behaviour — often in the context of a relationship breakdown.
Communications Offences
Sending messages, emails, or social media posts that are alleged to be threatening, grossly offensive, or designed to cause distress. Charges often follow under the Communications Act 2003 or the Online Safety Act 2023.
Stalking Protection Orders
The police can apply for an SPO before any criminal charge. These orders impose significant restrictions and breaching one is a criminal offence. We advise on challenging or varying SPOs at the earliest stage.
Non-Fatal Strangulation
A standalone offence since 2022 under the Domestic Abuse Act, carrying up to 5 years' imprisonment. Prosecutions often rely solely on a complainant's account, making early preparation of your defence essential.
Domestic Abuse Protection Notices
DAPNs can be issued by police on the spot, imposing immediate restrictions on where you can go and who you can contact — even before a court hearing. We act quickly to advise and represent you at the follow-on DAPO hearing.
Controlling & Coercive Behaviour
An offence under s.76 of the Serious Crime Act 2015, carrying up to 5 years. These cases are often built on patterns of behaviour rather than single incidents, and require careful case-by-case analysis and early defence preparation.
Domestic Common Assault
Common assault in a domestic context is treated more seriously by courts and prosecutors than non-domestic equivalents. We advise on bail conditions, restraining orders, and full trial defence from the point of arrest.